Yodas 2013 - 2014

Congratulations to the whole team for their fantastic effort at their home fiesta, reaching the semi-finals of the plate competition and only knocked out by the eventual winners.

The penalty shoot-out they won to get there must have been one of the most exciting ever – 24 penalties taken!

Particular congratulations to Player of the Week, Toby.

We also presented the end-of-season awards, recognising effort and achievement throughout the whole season.

Congratulations to Most Improved Player of the Season – Dominic

And to Players of the Season – Ethan and Matthew B

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May 3, home against Jarvis Brook

Vs Jarvis Brook Dragons 5-0

In the last game of the league season and against opposition the Yodas had beaten comfortably before Christmas, the biggest danger today was expected to be complacency. But whatever these Jarvis Brook teams had been doing since last time we met, it has improved them enormously and the Yodas had their work cut out today. The Yodas played brilliantly in this match, but it was a closer game than the scoreline suggests. The difference today was much more clinical finishing from the yellows – virtually every chance was converted, and with some style too. This season has seen matches where the yodas created more chances than this yet struggled to get on the score sheet. They took a while to get their eye in though, with both Matt and Toby shooting wide. But the passing and team work was great today, creating chances in dangerous positions. A good cross in from Trisdon gave Jacob the chance to volley home his first of the day. A lovely forward pass from Jacob soon after gave Trisdon the opportunity to stroke the ball past the opposition keeper and make it two.

Jarvis Brook were not cowed, however, forcing Ethan to make a good low save straight from the second half whistle. But the Yodas were at their best in this second half. Dom came on in defence and was reading every ball well, and both he and Matthew were making long clearances that set the forwards on their way. Some of the passing and moving was brilliant by the forward players. Matt, as so often this season, was pulling the strings in midfield, setting team-mates up with great opportunities. The interplay between Trisdon, Toby and Jacob was great at times – fast and incisive. Jacob soon made it three-nil to the Yodas. A long ball from Toby gave Trisdon a great one on one chance with the keeper, who just managed to push it wide. A corner soon after gave Matt the chance to control the ball before shooting, but it was just over. An individual piece of brilliance from Toby – dribbling past three players before shooting – made it four-nil. Matt was the only forward player who couldn’t get on the scoresheet, sending a great left foot volley just wide near the end. Another volley from Jacob near the end gave him his hat-trick and the Yodas a great result.

Vs Jarvis Brook Warriors: 1-1

The Yodas were riding high after their earlier victory, and Matt tested the Warriors keeper early with a long drive well saved. Max moved into midfield for this match and Jacob gave him the chance to shoot with a lovely pass forward – he did well but this keeper was out of the top drawer. The yellows continued to look strong at the back – Matthew looked invincible and in control, as he has for much of the season, while Dom continues to improve his positional awareness and strength with every game. This left the forwards free to do their stuff. Matt’s wait to score was finally over when he was in the right place at the right time to chip the ball brilliantly over the keeper and make it 1-0. A great run from Toby allowed him to fire off a rocket of a shot, but it flew over the bar. The strength of all the boys is increasingly noticeably, and the long ball game is now an option. Some of Ethan’s kicks reached three quarters the length of the pitch, creating good scoring opportunities. A rare attacking move from the Warriors saw them score a goal against the run of play – deflecting off both posts before it trickled over the line.

The Yodas applied pressure from the second half whistle and relentlessly throughout the second half. But, as in many games this season, their hard work simply wasn’t rewarded with the goal they deserved. A smashing powerful header from Matt set Trisdon up one-on-one with the keeper, but he could just get a toe to it and it was wide by a fraction. A good cross in gave Trisdon another opportunity soon after, but the keeper saved. Matt also shot wide. The Warriors never really looked like scoring a second, so strong were the yellows’ defence. The Yodas had most of the possession in this second half, and they applied pressure right up until the end, but couldn’t quite break down this well organised blue team. It was exciting, hard fought stuff, but the Warriors clung on right until the end.

Player of the week: Jacob

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April 12, away against Forest Row

Vs Forest Row Rovers: 2-1

Another lovely setting this weekend, but another tough pair of teams that the Yodas were facing. The yellows welcomed back Trisdon, who looked lively despite not playing a match for a while, but they missed their strong centre half Matthew C today. Dropping back from midfield though, Max did an admirable job in defence alongside Dominic, while Trisdon took his place on the left of midfield. The Yodas showed only fleeting glimpses of what they’re capable of in the first half, but still gave the greens’ keeper a few things to think about. Toby did some clever dribbles, linking up well with Trisdon and Jacob, who had a shot saved quite early on. Trisdon also managed a shot on goal from a corner but their goalie was too quick on his feet. A nice solo run from Toby set himself up, but he could only hit the side netting. Matt was doing some great work as a defensive midfielder, starting off most of the attacking moves with good passes, but sometimes lacked support from his team-mates. This made the opposition dangerous on the counter-attack and they won a corner towards the end of the first half, from which they scored through a crowded penaly area, leaving Ethan no chance.

The Yodas perked up considerably in the second half, putting Forest Row’s goal under much more pressure. Toby continued his good work, pushing forward from the centre and making some intelligent passes. Matt shot just wide, and Trisdon hit the post soon after from quite some way out. Toby also saw a good shot go just wide. Then Matt, who continued to be an excellent playmaker put a dangerous cross into a crowded opposition box for Trisdon to bundle over the line and bring the scoreline equal. It wasn’t much longer before a great ball from Toby gave Trisdon another scoring opportunity and he made no mistake with a powerful shot to put the Yodas ahead. The Yodas continued to pile on the pressure right to the end. The midfield four of Matt, Jacob, Toby and Trisdon were putting together some really nice passing moves, but couldn’t add to the scoreline, and it finished 2-1 to the Yodas.

Vs Forest Row Rangers: 0-0

The Rangers proved even tougher opposition than the Rangers, with a big number 5 in the middle and a slippery number 7 up front. But within seconds of the whistle the Yodas had put together a great passing move between Matt, Jacob, Toby and Trisdon but the goalie had the final shot covered. Toby won a free-kick soon after, which the keeper couldn’t hang on to, Jacob was there for the rebound but couldn’t make it count. Max performed his man-marking duties on number 7 brilliantly, effectively keeping their danger man out of the game. Matt was outstanding again, covering more distance than anyone else on the pitch, very often there protecting the two defenders, but also setting up and taking part in most of the attacking moves. His positioning and ball control were second to none. This helped the Yodas keep the pressure on, and they did everything except get the ball in the net. Jacob shot wide and Trisdon volleyed over before half time.

Langton Green continued to look strong at the back during the second half, although Ethan was forced to make a couple of difficult saves. But Dom and Max played the ball out of defence well and had Matt to protect them on numerous occasions. Mr B also worked himself into a shooting opportunity, but this was another good goalkeeper. A great bit of dribbling soon after and a peach of a pass to Toby gave the Yodas another opportunity, but the ball simply would not go into the net. The whole team worked incredibly hard right up until the final, supporting each other well, but didn’t get the reward they deserved. But they didn’t have it all their own way, with Ethan just beating the green striker to the ball and kicking away, and forced to make another good save shortly before the final whistle.

Player of the Week: Matt

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April 5, away against Kingston Village and East Grinstead

Vs Kingston Village: 0-1

The setting was picturesque, on Kingston Village green, with the Sussex Downs in the background, but this was a tricky match. The Yodas applied good pressure from the whistle, with Toby shooting just wide within a minute of kick-off. Matt was at his best, pulling the strings in midfield, an incisive pass to Jacob shortly after, but again it went wide. Kingston had a definite gameplan, which was defending in numbers and breaking quickly on the counter attack, largely relying on their number 7, who seemed to be everywhere and very tricky for the Langton defence to keep tabs on. They hit the side netting early on, but most of the pressure was on their goal. Toby and Max combined well for a lovely 1-2 and Dom had a long shot well saved, but the yellows just couldn’t apply the finishing touch in front of goal. On the whole it was a very closely matched game, the main differences between the teams being Kingston’s number 7, who always looked the most likely to score, and Matt for the Yodas, who made some great forward passes and important tackles from deep in midfield. Matthew C and Dom were strong in defence and Ethan was as reliable as ever in goal. But perhaps inevitably, it was a quick break from a Yodas’ corner than sent the red number 7 on his way, almost unchallenged and he gave Kingston the lead just before half time. Even so, the Yodas continued to pose most of the threats, with their keeper having to tip the ball over the crossbar from a corner and Toby shooting into the side net after an impressive solo run.

Ethan was called into more action in the second half, making a couple of good saves at the feet of onrushing Kingston players. Matt again kept the Yodas in the game with a strong header away from a red corner. Max and Jacob worked hard in midfield, but couldn’t quite put the decisive move together. Toby was full of clever running, putting in a great cross late on, but Matt couldn’t quite convert it. A little more killer instinct in front of goal and the Yodas could have won comfortably, but the Kingston plan worked well and in the end it was a fair result.

Vs East Grinstead Meads: 6-0

Playing downhill on quite a steeply sloping pitch for the first half definitely helped, but let’s not take anything away from a great team performance by the yellows in this match. They were able to play a much higher line than in their first match and their play was all about the attack. Another brilliant ball from Matt gave Jacob the chance to cross in for Max, who had a fairly straightforward tap in to make it 1-0. The Yodas didn’t have it all their own way, however, with Ethan forced to make another of his incredibly brave saves at the feet of the striker. But the Yodas’ confidence was growing by the minute, and a lovely solo run from Toby gave him the chance to power home a second goal for the yellows. Toby, Jacob and Max were having fun at this point, running all over the opposition half, often fed good balls from Matt sitting just in front of the back two. A great cross from Toby allowed Max to score his second. Despite spending most of his time before Christmas in defence, Max is developing great dribbling skills and a keen nose for goal. A long pass forward from Dom in defence gave Jacob the ball just pass the half way line. He struck it beautifully, while the opposition could only watch as goal number four sailed into their net. A brilliant ball through the middle of a number of blue players by Toby put Jacob one on one with the keeper and he made no mistake in slotting home his second and the Yodas’ fifth just before half time.

It was much harder playing up hill in the second half, and the Yodas had to do a little more defending. Matt was brilliant in front of the defenders, making several last-ditch tackles and blocks. Jacob and Max were both on for a hat-trick and they knew it. Max made a couple of great runs down the left wing in his attempt to reach goal, but couldn’t quite get his third. Matthew C and Dom did a great job in preventing the opposition getting on the score sheet, despite East Grinstead never giving up. Toby was fouled just outside the centre circle but wasted no time in taking the free kick. It was a long one, and Jacob was on the end of it. He desperately wanted his second hat-trick in two weekends and he made sure the ball went over the line this time. It finished 6-0 to the Yodas – a great result against good opposition.

Player of the Week: Max

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March 29, home against Borough Green Colts and Tonbridge Junior Ferrari

Vs Borough Green Colts: 8-0

The sun came out today, the team was back to full strength, and playing at their best. A slight change to the usual formation saw four across midfield, with Toby playing centrally, slightly ahead of Matt and Jacob and Max either side. It certainly worked for them today, with Jacob shooting just wide within seconds of kick-off . Some great dribbling from Matt gave him another chance and he made no mistake this time to put the Yodas one up. It was all about the Yodas’ attack in the first half of this game, with Matt shooting just wide shortly after. A good run from Toby gave Jacob another chance. But then, almost out of nowhere came goal of the season. Matt, with his back to goal and some way out to the right of the goal flicked the ball up, volleying on the turn to fire the ball into the top corner. If only it had been on video, that would be one to watch over and over. Toby’s dribble gave Matt another chance soon after and he was not in the mood for missing today – 3-0. Jacob was playing in a Thierry Henry type role, running in as a second striker from the left and his persistence paid off, firing in a rebound to make it four. Another mazey run from Matt down the left hand side put Jacob in for his hat trick and to make it 5-0 at half time. The Yodas were unstoppable. Ethan had very little to do in goal, and ahead of him Matthew C and Dom were absolutely rock solid, freeing up the midfield to attack at will.

The second half started with a good throw in from Jacob, straight onto Matt’s foot for a volley, but just wide. Matt was bossing the midfield from his holding position, spraying passes left and right, as well as dribbling forward at will. He went around several players to put Max in with a chance, and he put himself on the scoresheet to make it six. Yet another dribble set Toby up, who made no mistake on the rebound and it was seven. Toby, also having a great game, hit the cross-bar. But he was the last one to score, making it a very impressive and well deserved 8-0 victory for the Yodas.

Vs Tonbridge Junior Ferrari: 2-0

The team in blue were a very different proposition to the players in green who rolled over in the first match. Tonbridge were a strong, well-organised group, who were a constant threat to the Yodas’ goal. It was very close in the first half, but the Yodas created their own opportunities, with Toby, Jacob and Matt all shooting just wide. Ethan kept the Yodas in it with a couple of great saves and Matthew C and Dom were kept busy, making a number of last-ditch tackles. The defenders also played a key attacking role in this match, with the Yodas often forced into more a long-ball game. The Yodas dug deep and stayed focused though, and a brilliant run from Toby that he finished well put the Yellows 1-0 up just before half time.

There were some great passing moves from the Langton team in the second half, with the whole team linking up well. Max, who’d been quiet up until now, saved his best for last with some insightful crossfield passing and some good tackling. Matt was still full of confidence, shooting from a long way out, but the keeper was a match for that one. It was a razor-sharp pass from Max right through the centre that sent Jacob away and he finished it perfectly to put the Yodas 2-0 up. This was an excellent all-round team performance from the Yodas, and they should all be proud of themselves. We’re all looking forward to more of the same next weekend!

Player of the Week: Toby

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March 8, home against Pembury Athletic

Vs Pembury Athletic Broncos: 0-6

This was the first competitive match the Yodas have played since the end of November, so inevitably they were a little rusty. But coupled with the fact that they only had five of their regular players available and that they were playing against a very strong and well organised Pembury side, these matches were always likely to be a bit of a struggle. Playing the first half uphill on the sloping school pitch didn’t help either and they were 0-3 down by half time. Fin and Ben from the Eagles had very kindly agreed to help their Langton mates out, but they’d already played two matches for their own team. Despite this, they didn’t look as tired as some of the Yodas, who looked like they’d forgotten to eat their Weetabix this morning. But with only six a side and no subs the pitch seemed to get bigger as the game went on.

But in fairness to the Yodas, the two Pembury centre halves were frighteningly large and confident and the black and whites also had a number of skilful dribblers. Max was a bright spark for the Yodas at left back, looking lively and adventurous, playing alongside him in defence. Matt B and Fin worked a couple of moves skilfully between themselves in midfield and Toby made a couple of promising runs but, by and large, the midfield struggled to get the ball to striker Jacob. The Yodas improved towards the end of the second half however. A fine one-two between Matt and Fin gave Matt a shooting chance, but the goalie had it covered. A telling through ball from Matt found Jacob, but he shot just wide. Jacob escaped the defenders again late in the game, to put Toby in with a chance, but it went just wide. A fine goal-line clearance from Max right at the end limited the damage. This wasn’t to be the Yodas day, but the gulf between the teams wasn’t as wide as the scoreline might suggest, and on another occasion they could prove more than a match for the Broncos.

Vs Pembury Athletic Gunners: 0-3

The yellows dug deep in their second game, despite the increasingly tired, and gelled much better as a team. Toby perked up, giving the opposition some serious cause for concern as he set off on his weaving runs. In fact, one of the highlights of the game for the yellows was his free-kick, which he was brave enough to take after finding himself on the end of a crunching tackle. He was some way out on the left, but managed to curl one towards the right post with some power that missed only by inches. Defensively, the Yodas held up well, with Max continuing his fine running and tackles, and Ben growing in confidence as the game went on. They were a bit unlucky to be 0-1 down at half time and still looked very much in the game.

Ben switched into midfield in the second half, giving Matt a bit more support in the centre, but the Gunners were as good as the Broncos in defence and the telling pass to the striker just wouldn’t come. The Yodas continued to pressure Pembury, though, winning a couple of corners, and constantly driving forward. But luck, among other things, was not on their side today. The continued to battle tiredness, but some looked exhausted by the end. They shipped a couple of goals, as much as a result of tiredness as anything, but still plugged away. Max found himself in a clear shooting position near the end and hit it will from some way out, but it was just over.

Player of the Week: Max

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November 30, home against East Grinstead Barca Meads and Kingston Village

Vs Kingston Village: 1-0

The Yodas had two of their most closely contented and hard fought games all season today. Kingston Village were strong but fair and matched the Yodas in all departments. The first half was as close as it could be, with few chances for either side. A novel 2-4 formation saw the yellows without an out and out striker, crowded the midfield and wouldn’t have been possible without excellent performances from the two defenders, Matthew C and Dominic. Matthew has been an absolute rock in defence all season and Dominic seems to have improved with every game. The four midfielders, all keen to attack, occasionally left their defenders with little support. Time and time again they made crucial tackles to keep the Yodas in the game. Last weekend’s corner-taking practice looked like it might pay off at the other end, with Matt B getting on the end of a powerful header and Trisdon having a good shot saved. But the Kingston goalie played nearly as well as our very own Ethan at the other end. Max made a couple of good probing runs down the right, and Toby looked a constant threat on the left, but most of the first half was spent battling in midfield, with Matt B strong and brave and in the thick of most it. The first half ended 0-0, it couldn’t have been tighter.

Kingston stepped up the pressure in the second half, forcing Ethan to make an excellent save, but he could only parry it onto the post. The Kingston striker fired in the rebound, but Ethan was quick to his feet, saving again and holding onto the ball this time. Phew! Matt B was making some great passes forward from midfield to his team mates in front of him, but no-one could quite find the finishing touch. In the end it was a good run from Toby and a perfect pass to Trisdon that put him in position to strike the ball home, leaving the keeper with no chance. 1-0 to the yellows! But Kingston didn’t let up for a second and the Yodas couldn’t afford to rest on their laurels. A well taken free-kick from Trisdon late on gave Jacob a half chance, but the keeper was on his toes and kept it out. The tension was high until the end, but the Yodas held on and it finished 1-0 – and what great value it was too.

Vs East Grinstead Barca Meads: 1-1

The Yodas showed great stamina and focus to contest another extremely hard-fought game against another accomplished and quite physical side. A goalmouth scramble quite early on saw the blues take the lead. But soon after, a great long ball from Trisdon sent Jacob scampering down the right wing. He just had time to get his shot away, but unfortunately just wide. Back at the other end, Ethan kept the Yodas in the game (as he has done countless other times this season) saving with his toes having dived the other way. Matthew C ventured up front for a corner to unleash a long shot on goal, parried by the goalie and Toby shot the rebound into the side netting. Too close to call, it was end to end stuff. Matthew C, great in defence, struck a great long pass up to Jacob, who was on his own and nearly in perfect goal scoring territory, but it just got away from him. 0-1 at half time.

Dom came off at half time, exhausted from some great running back and strong tackling and Matt B came back on to strengthen the central midfield. He soon made a great header on from a throw in, right into the goal mouth but no yellows could quite get their toe on the end of it. Another good long throw from Matthew C gave Toby a chance but it was just over the cross bar. Ethan meanwhile made another great finger-tip save at the other end. Max, shuffled back into defence, was partnering well with Matthew C and the attacking momentum started to shift in the Yodas’ favour. Matt B and Toby both managed shots on goal, but the goalie was well-placed on both occasions. The Yodas couldn’t quite find a way through, despite their hard work. Then the referee called out 25 seconds to go, Toby somehow managed to fight his way through midfield, put in a great pass to Trisdon, whose shot came back off a defender, only for Toby to hit the post, but Jacob was waiting for this rebound and made no mistake. The ball went over the line and the final whistle blew. No Fergie time required – the Yodas drew level at the very end and truly deserved their point. A great team effort.

Player of the Week: Matt B

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November 16, home against Forest Row

Vs Forest Row Rangers: 1-3

The Yodas were faced with a couple of very strong physical teams today, but acquitted themselves well and many will have cuts and bruises to show for their effort and bravery. Keen to maintain their position of third in the league table and wary of recent slow starts, they set off at a mean pace against the Rangers and were more than a match for the green team during the first half, slightly edging most of the possession. The back pairing of Matthew C and Dom looked confident and strong, protecting Ethan in goal well. There were occasional moments of brilliance in midfield, with some great passing moves from Matt B in the centre out to both Toby and Jacob on the wings. Trisdom was working hard to get the ball up front but the Yodas couldn’t quite make their hard work tell and the first half ended honours even at 0-0.

Unfortunately, both Toby and Jacob had to come off with injuries and the rearranged side, down to just six players, didn’t gel quickly enough. Forest Row attacked at pace, Ethan saved, but the striker tapped in the rebound. A great header from a corner soon after put the visitors 2-0 up. Then a fantastic strike from the right wing left Ethan no chance, and the greens looked to be cruising at 3-0 ahead. Looking a little dazed the Yodas dusted themselves off though and showed great spirit towards the end of the second half. They won a well-deserved corner, well taken by Matt B and slotted home byMax, who had only come on at half time and looked a real threat from midfield. Back in the game at 1-3, the Yodas looked reinvigorated and dangerous, Matt B trying a long shot that was well saved. But they couldn’t make it count and the game ended 1-3.

Vs Forest Row Rovers: 2-1

Battered and bruised from their earlier encounter with the Rangers, the yellows were out for revenge and got it virtually straight from the kick-off. A good pass from Max put Jacob in on goal and he made no mistake – 1-0 to the Yodas. A good pass from Trisdon soon after gave Jacob another chance, but he shot just wide. It was another great pass from Max that gave Jacob a chance and he made sure that his tap in was on target – 2-0 to the Yodas. But the Langton team weren’t having it all their own way, and Ethan was forced to make an important save from a free kick. Matthew C and Dom continued to look steady in defence, althouth they had to chase back advancing greens a couple of times. Matthew C was here, there and everywhere making his now trademark long throw-ins. Pressure from Forest Row finally paid off with a goal and it was 2-1 at half time.

Matt B had to go off injured at half time, after another important performance at the heart of the team. He was be replaced by a brave Toby, who still didn’t look 100 per cent after his earlier knock. The Yodas continued to battle, but it could have gone either way in the second half. A moment of brilliance from Max saw him run virtually the length of the pitch, around several bemused looking greens and have a valiant shot on goal. He deserved it to go in simply for effort, but it wasn’t to be. At the other end Ethan made a couple of important saves to preserve the yellows’ lead. Toward the end, a good throw in from Matthew C went to Trisdon, who controlled it well and passed to Jacob, who shot just wide. It finished 2-1 to the Yodas – a well deserved victory that reflected their effort and determination,

Player of the Week – Dom

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October 19, home against Ridgeway and Sevenoaks

Vs Ridgeway Jupiter: 2-2

These early starts don’t suit the Yodas, and they got off to a sluggish start against a slightly sharper opposition. But more clinical finishing from the yellows could have still seen then ahead, although there were chances at both end and the goalies were important to both teams. Toby had a good shot from the right saved early on and Matthew B had a long range shot saved. Ethan made a good save, and soon after had to dive bravely at the feet of an oncoming attacker to keep the score at 0-0. Three of the Yodas looked particularly on form and raring to go in the first half: Matthew C was excellent, keeping the Yodas in the game with some excellent last ditch tackles, Matthew B looked lively and tried some intelligent passes from midfield, and Ethan was brave and reliable between the posts (and covered in mud to prove it!). Some of the other yellows were not quite firing on all cylinders and Ridgeway took a deserved 1-0 lead into half time.

Ridgeway doubled their lead soon after half time, but it still took nearly ten minutes for the Yodas to finally click into gear. And suddenly they looked like a different team! In the last five minutes they made the black and white stripes fight for every ball and defend for all they were worth. A great inswinging corner from Toby bounced back out, but Toby was on the end of the rebound, only for it to be saved low and in the corner. The midfield clicked perfectly toward the end, with Toby, Matthew B and Jacob all looking threatening, Trisdom was a constant menance, lurking near the goal, chasing every rebound and hungry to score. A period of sustained pressure finally paid off when Jacob fire one into the roof of the net. Game on! Some scrappy play in the goalmouth gave the Yodas a penalty, which Toby dispatched with aplomb. Ridgeway were on the ropes for the last couple of minutes as it looked like the Yodas might pull off an incredible comeback. The pressure was relentless and Jacob very nearly scored with the last kick of the ball, but it was just wide. If the Yodas had played for half an hour like they did for the last five minutes they would have won at a canter, but as it was, 2-2 was a fair result.

Vs Sevenoaks Town Phoenix: 1-0

Now properly warmed up, the Yodas provided Sevenoaks with tough opposition from the start. Matthew C continued to provide rock solid cover at the back, and Dom was an excellent partner, leaving Ethan little to do in the first half. Matthew’s throw-ons seem to get longer and more accurate with each match – look out Rory Delap! Sevenoaks managed just one shot on goal in the first half, but they were well organised defensively. It took an incisive pass from Matthew B in midfield forward to Trisdom and his emphatic finish to reward the Yodas’ persistence. In true Michael Carrick style Matthew B continued to play his team mates in with clever passing from the centre of midfield. A short one to Trisdom put him in an excellent shooting position, but the shot flew just over. A cross-cum-shot from Trisdom flew agonisingly across the goalmouth but there was nobody there to get a toe to it. 1-0 to the Yodas at half time, and they were looking comfortable.

But Sevenoaks weren’t for giving up and renewed their efforts in the second half, forcing Ethan to make a good save early on. Matthew B was important, helping out the defence and making a vital last ditch stop. He was the engine of the team for much of the game, shooting just wide at the other end. Jacob and Matthew C continued to be solid in defence, and Max started to find a bit of confidence in midfield, creating a couple of scoring chances of his own. This was a close fought match against a Sevenoaks team that started the day near the top of the league, but the Yodas’ commitment was excellent, fighting for every ball. Near the end a last ditch tackle from Jacob was needed to preserve the lead, but the Yodas deserved their 1-0 winning margin at the end, even if just for effort alone. Well done to the whole team for hard-fought victory.

Player of the week: Matthew C

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October 5, away against Jarvis Brook

Vs Jarvis Brook Warriors: 3-0

Despite playing uphill in the first half, the Yodas put the opposition under pressure from the whistle. Toby won a foul very early on, which he converted with confidence to put the yellows ahead. Toby continued to be at his best, one of his early runs down the left leading to a good cross to Jacob, who couldn’t quite get his toe on the end of it. The game was mostly played in the blue half of the pitch, with the Yodas winning two corners in quick succession. Another run from Toby, a good shot but well saved. Max, playing out of his usual defensive position on the right of midfield, and looking like he plays there every week, also unleashed a powerful shot, but it was over the bar. Soon after, he had another shot saved. The half time scoreline of 1-0 didn’t really reflect the Yodas’ dominance. They were playing brilliantly as a team and doing everything except score a hatful of goals.

But they carried on in the same vein in the second half. Matt B had a shot saved, then hit a post. Dom – who’s improved enormously this season – found himself in a position to shoot a couple of times, but the goalie was good. Max also looks like a different player this season, he was dribbling past players, showing impressive skill on the ball, and having plenty of shooting opportunities. Matt B was also showing off some great skill in central midfield, making a number of runs himself. Matthew C made a great run out of defence, past a couple of opposition players and make a great pass to Jacob. Matt B finally gave the Yodas what they deserved, making it 2-0 with a powerful shot. A mazey run from Toby set up Matt B for another shot, then in packed goalmouth Jacob managed to poke the ball home to give the yellows a strong lead at 3-0. Ethan didn’t have too much to do in goal, but looked confident and capable when called on a couple of times. Matt B tried a long shot, but it flew over the bar. Jacob had a shot saved, and Matt B got to the rebound, but it was over again. The Yodas truly deserved their 3-0 victory. They dominated all areas of the pitch, and could even have won by a much wider margin.

Vs Jarvis Brook Dragons: 5-0

Despite looking a little weary after their impressive performance in the first game, and on a surprisingly warm day for October, the Yodas remained comfortable in control of their second game. Even so, Ethan was forced to make a good save at the feet of an attacker early on. A long ball forward from Dom found striker Jacob in a good position and he slotted home with a good finish to put the Yodas ahead. Matt B was playing brilliantly, having a shot saved, then followed by an impressive dribble around three players only to shoot just wide. Max Smith, also having a great day, hit the side netting. Another great dribble from Matt B game him a well deserved goal, putting the Yodas 2-0 up. Toby was keen to get in on the act, but shot just wide shortly before half time.

Straight from the second half kick-off, a great lay-off from Matt B gave Toby the chance to blast one into the top of the net – 3-0! There was ample supply from Toby on the left wing, and a great cross putting Matt B in on goal, but it was just over. Ethan made another good save – he’s rock solid between the posts, creating a confidence that flows through the whole team, even though he wasn’t called into action very often today. There was no stopping Matt B, bossing midfield and getting forward at every opportunity. He dribbled around three defenders and bam! An absolutely sublime goal – contender for goal of the season without a doubt. The blues didn’t roll over, however, but the defence was so solid they were going nowhere. Dom made a couple of absolutely crucial last ditch tackles – both him and Matthew C were solid and reliable in defence, giving the Dragons few opportunities to shoot at goal. A lengthy period of sustained pressure led to a well deserved fifth for the Yodas – Toby driving one low into the corner. A late goalmouth scramble resulted in a shot just wide, but the game ended 5-0, a fair reflection of the Yodas’ absolutely excellent teamwork. There is a buzz and confidence around the team this season, suggesting there could be many more impressive victories to come. Can’t wait till the next match!

Player of the Week – Matt B

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September 21, home against Uckfield and Ratton

Vs Ratton Rangers: 0-3

The Yodas started well. Trisdon running forwards from the minute the whistle went, but the yellows looked a little disjointed early on and were soon down 0-1. A good run from Toby down the left wing created a good shooting chance for Trisdon, but his shot was saved. The Yodas were working hard, the defenders Dom and Max covering well, but still the Yodas looked more like a group of individuals than a team. They were soon 0-2 down, then Ethan stopped a potential third with a great save. The Yodas kept pushing forward, a pass from Trisdon to Matt B gave him chance to unleash a good shot, but the Ratton goalie was too good and saved again. Ethan made several good saves at the other end, keeping the Yodas in the game. It was 0-2 at half time.

Soon after the whistle blew for the second half, the yellows won a free kick on the edge of the penalty box. Matt B took it well, but after a goalmouth scramble it went wide. He took another good free kick soon after, but again the ball just wouldn’t go in. The a sliding shot from the Yodas’ striker looked good, but the keeper was better. It was end to end stuff, exciting to watch, but not flowing well. Jacob put in some good work down the right wing, but again couldn’t create a good enough goal scoring opportunity. A handball gave Ratton a penalty. It was perfectly struck, leaving Ethan no chance – 0-3. Apart from that, Ethan was still keeping the Yodas’ hopes alive with save after save. Trisdon was running everywhere, tackling like a good’un, but they couldn’t quite put the passes together. Another good run from Toby gave Matt B a chance, he was there for the rebound off the keeper, but just poked it wide. With Dom J injured, the Yodas borrowed Dan from the Devils, who immediately went up front. Some great one-twos with Matt B looked impressive, but still the Yodas couldn’t break down this well organised team from Eastbourne. 0-3 was the final score.

Vs Uckfield Colts: 15-0

Somewhat chastened by their earlier defeat to Ratton, the Yodas were on a mission in their second match to show the team from Uckfield what they could really do. And boy oh boy, did they look like a different team in this game. Trisdon to Toby, to Matt and it was 1-0 to the Yodas very early on. Jacob quickly made it two, then had a shot saved. Toby slotted in number three, followed by Trisdon, who had been working like a dervish, who converted his chance to make it four. Matt B showed some great skill in front of goal, flicking the ball up and volleying powerfully. That made it 5-0. It was all the Yodas in this match, leaving Ethan little to do. His two defenders looked increasingly composed and stylish. Dom has come on leaps and bounds this season, and is truly a force to be reckoned with for any oncoming attacker. Max also showed his growing confidence, making a number of runs out of defence, beating a number of opposition players on the way, and finishing with a good pass to a team mate. Matt B converted another chance to gain his first hat-trick of the season. Trisdon slotted one into the bottom corner to make it seven. Another great run from Toby, this time down the right, and this time he finished it off himself – great strike. And then another – Trisdon volleyed from in front of the goal – making it 9-0 to the yellows at half time.

Second half saw Matt B and Trisdon swap roles, Matt going back to central midfield, where he was outstanding last season, and Trisdon becoming the out and out striker that seemed more natural for him. The partnership worked well, with a great pass from Matt setting Trisdon up to score number ten. Then Trisdon shot low from the left to make it eleven. Toby’s impressive runs continued to bamboozle the opposition, he finished another with a great strike to make it 12. Jacob crossed a good shot into the box, and a rebound off Trisdom’s knee went in to take his tally to seven. The Yodas could do nothing wrong at this stage. Another solo effort from Toby made it 14. A great bit of skill from Matt set Jacob up to score the last goal near the end.

Player of the week: Max

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September 14, away against Pembury

Vs Pembury Gunners: 5-0

The Langton Green Yodas hit the ground running today, after what has seemed a very long summer. But there was no dust on the yellows as they tore into the Gunners from the whistle. New boy Trisdon had his first shot well saved by the keep from a corner. Minutes later a in-swinging corner from Toby travelled through everybody and into the far corner of the net. 1-0 and the Yodas had the wind in their sails. Matt B, trying out in a new position for him as striker, had a shot saved soon after, but then a throw in to his feet, a quick turn, he let fly and it was 2-0. Toby was terrorising the Pembury teams all day running up and down the left wing like a slightly younger Ryan Giggs. It was a great cross from the left from his that gave Trisdon his chance to net his first goal for his new team. He took it with aplomb. A run from Trison, passed to Jacob led to a shot saved. The Gunners’ goalie was kept busy today alright. Some excellent skills from Matt B on the left, but he couldn’t quite convert on this occasion. It was 3-0 at half time.

The Yodas had to work a bit harder in the second half. The defence were rarely troubled, but Matt C, Dom and Max all looked very sure footed. The confidence flowed all the way from Ethan in goal, who looked calm and in control, all the way through the team. Toby ran past four opposition players in one blistering run, but couldn’t quite convert. Ethan tipped a strong shot over, but there weren’t many more heading his way. The midfield trio looked awesome at times, Toby and Trisdon were unstoppable at times, and Jacob made some telling runs too. Pembury hit the post in probably their last shot on target. Then another great cross from Toby allowed Trisdon to power one into the corner to make it four. The icing on the cake came from a goalmouth scramble where Matt B got his toe to the ball in time to make it 5-0. This was a superb team effort, every player doing their job well and working for each other. A great start to the season.

Vs Pembury Broncos: 3-3

The Pembury Broncos were an altogether different proposition to the Gunners, and they tested the Yodas’ skill and resolve to the limit. They scored early on, catching the Yodas off balance. Trisdon equalised soon after, though. Max S, playing in midfield for a change, showed that he could operate equally as well further forward, making some probing runs past the opposition. It was end to end stuff in the first half, first Ethan made a good save, then Toby had a shot saved, Trisdon was there for the rebound but it went just over. It was 1-1 at half time, but the Yodas had been under quite some pressure at their own end. Matt C and Dom J were holding the fort well, with Ethan looking confident behind them.

Early in the second half Ethan parried a strong shot brilliantly, only for another Pembury player to tap in the rebound. Soon after, following a goalmouth scramble where anything could have happened, Pembury scored again. But at 1-3 down the Yodas kept on going. Toby rediscovered his mojo from the previous game and the Yodas started to press the opposition in their half. A throw-in to Trisdon gave him chance to unleash a wonderful strike into the top corner. Is it too early to be talking about goal of the season? A brilliant one-two between Toby and Matt B drew applause from the crowds but the Yodas couldn’t quite find the net. In the end, a fantastic solo run from Toby, past several players and where he almost walked the ball over the line, made it level. Great credit to the Yodas, they fought hard for this one, showed some real spirit, and not a little skill and teamwork. Roll on the next match….